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Sony IER-Z1RImage © Amazon

Sony IER-Z1R

78/ 100
Great
HearWiki score

Buyability: how good it is, what it costs, and whether it is still sold new.

From reviews 84/ 100Good value
$1,700
typical price, USD
Discontinued
Manufacturer pageBuy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
Sony
Type
Wired IEMs
Fit
-
Connection
Wired
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2018

Score breakdowngreat overall

Sound9.0
Value6.5

A flagship closed hybrid IEM in Sony's Signature Series, using dynamic and balanced-armature driver technologies for wide-band high-resolution reproduction. It is intended for premium wired personal listening.

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The Sony IER-Z1R is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that prioritizes a powerful, immersive sound with exceptional bass depth and a wide, airy stage. Its tuning is far from neutral, instead offering a bold, engaging signature that suits bass lovers, though it comes with notable comfort and midrange compromises. The build is elegant and the technical performance is top-tier, making it a standout flagship for those who value impact over accuracy.

What works

  • Enormous, visceral bass response that adds weight to any track
  • Huge, holographic soundstage with precise imaging
  • High-quality, luxurious shell and detachable cable
  • Crisp, extended treble that brings out fine details
  • Strong overall technical ability for a hybrid design

What doesn't

  • Recessed midrange can make vocals sound distant or veiled
  • Large, heavy housings may cause discomfort during long sessions
  • Requires significant burn-in before reaching its full potential
  • Pricey for a tuning that won't suit neutral or reference listeners

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - Sony IER-Z1R
Driverhybrid
Driver typehybrid
Impedance40 Ω
Sensitivity103 dB/mW

What the reviews said

4 source(s) feeding this product's score.

audioreviews.org

90

The reviewer strongly favors the IER-Z1R for listeners who want maximum bass impact and a highly engaging sound. It is presented as an excellent choice for bass-focused listening rather than a neutral reference monitor.

Read the full review

headfonics.com

This review concludes that the IER-Z1R delivers exemplary sound and is a welcome flagship addition with elegant design and build. The reviewer also notes that performance improves after substantial burn-in and that the sound quality is the main strength.

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headphones.com

This review treats the Sony IER-Z1R as a flagship hybrid IEM with unusually strong bass performance and a big, immersive presentation. The overall conclusion is highly positive, emphasizing its technical ability and distinctive tuning.

Read the full review

majorhifi.com

The review highlights the IER-Z1R’s expansive soundstage, strong imaging, deep bass, and clean treble, while also pointing out weaker mids and a less comfortable fit. Overall, it reads as a very strong sonic performer with some ergonomic tradeoffs.

Read the full review

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